Certified nurse aide (CNA/STNA)
Are you ready to embark on a rewarding career in nursing? Take the first step by earning your certified nurse aide certificate in as few as eight weeks at Stark State College.
Program at a glance
DEGREE TYPE
Certificate
PROGRAM FORMAT
In person
LENGTH (FULL TIME)
8 weeks
CAREER COMMUNITY
Program overview
Start your health care career – fast.
Ready to start a meaningful career where you make a real difference every single day? Becoming a certified nurse aide – formerly known in Ohio as a state tested nurse aide (STNA) – is one of the fastest ways to step into the healthcare field and start caring for patients face-to-face.
CNAs are the heart of patient care. You’ll work on the front lines, helping people with daily activities, monitoring their health, and providing comfort and support. You’ll also work closely with nurses and physicians, gaining hands-on experience that builds confidence and real-world skills.
As a graduate of Stark State College’s CNA/STNA program, you’ll be prepared for in-demand roles in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, schools, and home health care. This training doesn’t just lead to a job; it opens the door to a career in healthcare.
Want to keep going? Many CNA/STNAs use this credential as a stepping stone into nursing. After gaining experience, you can take the next step by applying to Stark State’s practical nursing program and continue advancing in the field.
Program details
- Gain short-term CNA/STNA training at little to no cost.
- Take classes at Stark State College Akron or on main campus in North Canton.
- Experience coursework in the classroom and practice lab – and via clinical hours.
- Day and evening classes are available.
- Learn from nurses who have successfully completed the Ohio Department of Health’s Train the Trainer program and have many years of experience in education.
- Earn your certification in just eight weeks.
Start by reviewing the CNA Information packet (PDF)
Then, contact Mary Carothers, CNA Instructor, at mcarothers@starkstate.edu to start the application process.
Note: See information packet for complete list of admission requirements.
| Location | Start date | End date | Day/clinicals | Review | State test |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akron (day) | June 3 | July 15 | Wednesday, July 8 Friday, July 10 | July 22 | July 24 |
| main campus (day) | June 23 | July 30 | Tuesday July 23 Thursday, July 28 | Aug. 6 | Aug. 14 |
| Akron (day) | Aug. 19 | Sept. 25 | Monday, Sept. 18 Friday, Sept. 23 | Oct. 2 | Oct. 9 |
| Akron (evening) | Oct. 26 | Dec. 14 | Monday, Dec. 7 Wednesday, Dec. 9 | Dec. 16 | Dec. 18 |
30-minute break scheduled for each day
*Bring state issued ID and original Social Security Card.
Careers and outcomes
At the completion of the course, students will be eligible to take the state test to become a certified nurse aide. Stark State’s CNA/STNA course is approved by the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Higher Education.
Graduates have many opportunities to work in health care facilities including hospitals, nursing homes, schools and home care. Graduates may also consider advancing their education by applying for our practical nursing program.
In the classroom
Stark State’s CNA program offers an engaging, close-knit learning atmosphere, small class sizes and practical training using advanced equipment.
Related programs
Looking for more career options? Check out these other programs.
Lowest tuition around
Put your money toward your goals – not debt.
Stark State’s tuition costs up to 83% less than other area colleges and universities. Along with financial aid and scholarship opportunities, you gain the most value for your education without sacrificing quality.
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Mary Carothers, LPN
CNA Instructor
330-494-6170 ext. 4027
Take the next step
Whether you’re just starting out, making your college comeback or looking for a change, you belong at Stark State.